MTB SkillForge, an initiative of MTB Exams, UK (Music Teacher’s Board), will conduct a series of music education events and concerts in Kohima, Dimapur and Shillong from October 6 to 9, bringing advanced educator workshops, masterclasses and recitals to the North-East.
The programme is led by Dr Karl Lutchmayer, Head of Music & Pedagogy (India), and is aimed at raising the standards of music education by providing teachers and students with practical tools, fresh perspectives and access to international expertise.
According to the organisers, MTB SkillForge focuses on both educators and learners through transformative masterclasses and advanced workshops that blend global best practices with local accessibility. The North-East edition is positioned to build on the region’s recognised musical talent and cultural heritage by fostering sustained collaboration between visiting artists and local institutions.
The series opens on October 6 in Kohima in collaboration with the Task Force For Music and Arts (TaFMA) at the Centre for Excellence in Music & Arts (CEMA), Minister Hill, with educator workshops beginning after registrations at 12:15 pm. In the evening, RCEMPA will host a recital titled “Real Lives and Tall Tales: a recital of autobiographical reminiscence and fantastical narratives,” featuring Dr Lutchmayer and violinist Nourhe Khate. The concert will open with a performance by the Sunshine Orchestra, an initiative of the A. R. Rahman Foundation.
The orchestra first connected with Nagaland during the 2018 Hornbill Festival and continues to train with TaFMA, exposing young musicians to Indian and Western traditions and opportunities to collaborate with international artists.
On October 7, the programme moves to Dimapur. Educator workshops will be held at Hotel Saramati, with registrations from 9 am, while masterclasses will take place at the Margaret Shishak School of Music (MSSM). The day will conclude with an evening concert at Bundrock Chapel Hall, Patkai Christian College, featuring recital performances by Dr Karl Lutchmayer and Nourhe Khate, opened by the Margaret Shishak School of Music Singers. The choir comprises students trained in vocal technique, ensemble singing and classical repertoire.
The final leg will be held on October 9 in Shillong at Lum Jingsuk Homes, with SkillForge workshops and masterclasses during the day.
The series will close with an evening performance by the Arora Choir at the same venue. The choir is known for rich harmonies and a repertoire that blends classical choral tradition with the cultural flavour of Meghalaya.
Organisers stated that these collaborations underscore the event’s mission to connect international-standard musical expertise with local talent and build a lasting impact on music education in the North-East.
For more information about MTB Exams India and its programmes, visit india.mtbexams.com. For registrations and enquiries for all events, contact MTB Representative Yanpo Humtsoe at 9615447255 or yhumtsoe@india.mtbexams.com.
